Largest dhol drum ensemble

The largest dhol drum ensemble consists of 2,872 participants and was achieved by the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs, Govt. of West Bengal (India) at Eden Garden Stadium, Kolkata, West Bengal, India on 9 October 2026.

The attempt took place at the famous Eden Garden Cricket Stadium, symbolically marking the start of Durga Puja.

A dhol is a traditional Indian musical instrument—a large, usually barrel-shaped drum with a drumhead at each end, generally played with sticks. The dhol is called Dhak in West Bengal and is played by people called Dhaki. The Dhak is closely associated with Durga Puja (A festival which commemorates Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.)

Durga Puja is about to start in West Bengal, and the attempt was held in a bid to celebrate this inclusive festival which sees attendance from people across India.